EP2505474A1 - Bicycle suspension control apparatus - Google Patents
Bicycle suspension control apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2505474A1 EP2505474A1 EP11176185A EP11176185A EP2505474A1 EP 2505474 A1 EP2505474 A1 EP 2505474A1 EP 11176185 A EP11176185 A EP 11176185A EP 11176185 A EP11176185 A EP 11176185A EP 2505474 A1 EP2505474 A1 EP 2505474A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- suspension
- power supply
- controller
- power level
- state
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
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- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 240
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 21
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 claims description 16
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 20
- 238000013016 damping Methods 0.000 description 16
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 15
- 239000006096 absorbing agent Substances 0.000 description 8
- 230000035939 shock Effects 0.000 description 8
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 6
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 5
- PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N Nickel Chemical compound [Ni] PXHVJJICTQNCMI-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004146 energy storage Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- UFHFLCQGNIYNRP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Hydrogen Chemical compound [H][H] UFHFLCQGNIYNRP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Lithium ion Chemical compound [Li+] HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052739 hydrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000001257 hydrogen Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910001416 lithium ion Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229910052759 nickel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000036316 preload Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
- B62K25/00—Axle suspensions
- B62K25/04—Axle suspensions for mounting axles resiliently on cycle frame or fork
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
- B62J45/00—Electrical equipment arrangements specially adapted for use as accessories on cycles, not otherwise provided for
- B62J45/20—Cycle computers as cycle accessories
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
- B62K25/00—Axle suspensions
- B62K25/04—Axle suspensions for mounting axles resiliently on cycle frame or fork
- B62K2025/044—Suspensions with automatic adjustment
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
- B62K25/00—Axle suspensions
- B62K25/04—Axle suspensions for mounting axles resiliently on cycle frame or fork
- B62K2025/047—Axle suspensions for mounting axles resiliently on cycle frame or fork with suspension locking means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
- B62K25/00—Axle suspensions
- B62K25/04—Axle suspensions for mounting axles resiliently on cycle frame or fork
- B62K2025/048—Axle suspensions for mounting axles resiliently on cycle frame or fork with suspension manual adjustment details
Definitions
- This invention generally relates to a control device configured to control bicycle suspensions. More specifically, the present invention relates to a bicycle suspension control apparatus for controlling an electrically adjustable suspension. Background Information
- a bicycle suspension control apparatus that basically comprises a power supply sensor and a controller.
- the power supply sensor detects a power level of a power supply being supplied from the power supply to an electrically adjustable suspension.
- the controller is configured to selectively change a setting state of the suspension between at least a lockout state and a non-lockout state.
- the controller is operatively coupled to the power supply sensor to receive a power level signal from the power supply sensor.
- the controller prohibits changing of the setting state of the suspension from the non-lockout state to the lockout state upon the power supply sensor detecting the power level of the power supply being below a first prescribed power level.
- the controller permits changing of the setting state of the suspension from the lockout state to the non-lockout suspension state while the power level of the power supply is below the first prescribed power level.
- data can be transmitted from the first and second switches 21 and 22 and/or the first and second switches 31 and 32 to the controller 14 by wireless communication devices.
- signal as used herein is not limited to an electrical signal, but includes other types of signals such as a command.
- the position signals of the front and rear position sensors 76 and 86 are output to the controller 14 via the power line 19.
- the position signals are converted into display signals, and the positions of the front and rear suspensions 16 and 18 are displayed by the display unit 64.
- Voltage data (VD e.g., three stages of voltage data) is also output to the controller 14 via the power line 19.
- the adjustment signals are output from the controller 14 in accordance with the operation of the switches 21 and 22 and the switches 31 and 32 to set the front and rear suspensions 16 and 18 by the respective power lines 24 and 34.
- step S1 the all of the previous detected values and/or flags are cleared from memory. Then the process proceeds to step S2.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Axle Suspensions And Sidecars For Cycles (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This invention generally relates to a control device configured to control bicycle suspensions. More specifically, the present invention relates to a bicycle suspension control apparatus for controlling an electrically adjustable suspension. Background Information
- Some bicycles are provided with a front suspension and/or a rear suspension. The front suspension typically includes a pair of shock absorbers that form portions of the legs of the front wheel fork, and the rear suspension typically includes a shock absorber with one end mounted to the front portion of the frame and another end mounted to a pivoting rear swing arm that supports the rear wheel.
- Some shock absorbers are constructed to allow the rider to vary several operating parameters to accommodate varying riding conditions. Such operating parameters typically include compression damping, rebound damping (to control the rate of shock absorber extension), and lockout. However, in the past, such adjustments were made manually and usually require the rider to dismount the bicycle and set each operating parameter adjustment control device separately. In more recent times, these operating parameters are adjusted by electric actuators. Some bicycles use a battery to supply electrical power to operate the electric actuators that are used to adjust the operating parameters of the suspension. In this case, the power of battery will become lower and lower each time one of the operating parameters of the suspensions is changed. At a certain point, the power level of the battery can discharge to a point in which the rider is suddenly prevented from adjusting the operating parameters of the suspension.
- In view of the state of the known technology, a bicycle suspension control apparatus is disclosed herein that stops control of a bicycle suspension by a rider when a power supply level falls below a prescribed power level but permits changing of the setting state of the suspension from the lockout state to the non-lockout suspension state while the power level of the power supply is below the first prescribed power level.
- In one embodiment, a bicycle suspension control apparatus is provided that basically comprises a power supply sensor and a controller. The power supply sensor detects a power level of a power supply being supplied from the power supply to an electrically adjustable suspension. The controller is configured to selectively change a setting state of the suspension between at least a lockout state and a non-lockout state. The controller is operatively coupled to the power supply sensor to receive a power level signal from the power supply sensor. The controller prohibits changing of the setting state of the suspension from the non-lockout state to the lockout state upon the power supply sensor detecting the power level of the power supply being below a first prescribed power level. The controller permits changing of the setting state of the suspension from the lockout state to the non-lockout suspension state while the power level of the power supply is below the first prescribed power level.
- These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the bicycle suspension control apparatus will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which, taken in conjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses preferred embodiments.
- Referring now to the attached drawings which form a part of this original disclosure:
-
Figure 1 is a side elevational view of a bicycle that is equipped with a bicycle suspension control apparatus in accordance with one embodiment; -
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the handlebar area of the bicycle illustrated inFigure 1 , with a controller and a pair of suspension operating devices mounted to a straight type handlebar; -
Figure 3 is a schematic block diagram showing the entire configuration of the bicycle suspension control apparatus; -
Figure 4 is an alternative schematic block diagram showing the entire configuration of the bicycle suspension control apparatus; -
Figure 5 is a flowchart showing a first control process executed by the controller of the bicycle suspension control apparatus; and -
Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a second control process executed by the controller of the bicycle suspension control apparatus. - Selected embodiments will now be explained with reference to the drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the following descriptions of the embodiments are provided for illustration only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
- Referring initially to
Figure 1 , abicycle 10 is illustrated that is equipped with a bicyclesuspension control apparatus 12 having acontroller 14 that is mounted on ahandlebar 15 for controlling an electricallyadjustable front suspension 16 and an electrically adjustablerear suspension 18 in accordance with a first embodiment. The bicyclesuspension control apparatus 12 is also provided with a power supply 20 (e.g., a battery as shown) for supplying electrical power to thecontroller 14 and to the electrically adjustable front andrear suspensions controller 14 and the electrically adjustable front andrear suspensions power supply 20. Rather, for example, a generator by itself or a generator with a battery can be used for the power supply of thecontroller 14 and the electrically adjustable front andrear suspensions suspension control apparatus 12, as explained below, thebicycle 10 can be any type of bicycle front and rear suspensions. Thus, the parts of thebicycle 10 will not be discussed herein, except for those parts that will assist in the understanding of the bicyclesuspension control apparatus 12. - As explained below in more detail, the
controller 14 is configured to selectively change various setting states of the front andrear suspensions controller 14. In other words, thecontroller 14 is configured to selectively change at least one electrically adjustable suspension parameter of each of the front andrear suspensions power supply 20 becomes lower than a prescribed power level (a predetermined value), thecontroller 14 automatically stops controlling one or both of the front andrear suspensions power supply 20. - The
power supply 20 is a battery in the illustrated embodiment. The battery can be, for example, a nickel hydrogen battery or a lithium ion battery. Thepower supply 20 constitutes an electrical energy storage device or storage element that serves as a power source for the electrical components of the bicycle. For example, thepower supply 20 preferably supplies a power supply voltage V of V1 volts (DC) to thecontroller 14 and the front andrear suspensions - In this embodiment, for example, the
controller 14 is preferably configured to change the setting state of the front andrear suspensions controller 14 is not limited to changing the lockout state of the front andrear suspensions rear suspensions rear suspension 18 before stop thefront suspension 16 so that the rider can continue to adjust the lockout and non-lockout states thefront suspension 16. - In the illustrated embodiment of
Figure 3 , thecontroller 14 is provided with an electric powerline communication section 14a that is configured to execute communication by PLC (power line communications), i.e., to execute two-way communications through anelectric power line 19, with an electric powerline communication section 16a of thefront suspension 16, an electric powerline communication section 18a of therear suspension 18 and an electric powerline communication section 20a of thepower supply 20. Thus, control signals that control the front andrear suspensions electric power line 19 that interconnect thecontroller 14, the front andrear suspensions power supply 20. In this way, data can be transmitted between thecontroller 14 and the front andrear suspensions power supply 20 by theelectric power line 19. Theelectric power line 19 includes at least a ground wire and a voltage line that are connected between each of the electrical components. Optionally, instead of using power line communications (PLC), in addition to a ground wire GND and a voltage wire V, separate signal wires POS, FSS and RSS can be provided for transmitting data as needed and/or desired as seen inFigure 4 . - In the illustrated embodiment, the
front suspension 16 is manually controlled by a first switch 21 (F-SW1) for setting a first electrically adjustable suspension parameter (e.g., a lockout state, a first damping rate and a first travel-stroke length) of thefront suspension 16 and a second switch 22 (F-SW2) for setting a second electrically adjustable suspension parameter (e.g., a non-lockout state, a second damping rate and a second travel-stroke length) of thefront suspension 16. These first andsecond switches controller 14, which is mounted on thehandlebar 15 of thebicycle 10 as seen inFigure 2 . Preferably, the first andsecond switches line communication section 23 to execute two-way communications through the electric power lines with the electric powerline communication section 14a of thecontroller 14. In this way, data can be transmitted from the first andsecond switches controller 14 by anelectric power line 24. Theelectric power line 24 includes at least a ground wire and a voltage line. Optionally, in addition to a ground wire GND and a voltage wire V, separate signal wires POS can be provided for transmitting data as needed and/or desired as seen inFigure 4 . - Similarly, the
rear suspension 18 is manually controlled by a first switch 31 (R-SW1) for setting a first electrically adjustable suspension parameter (e.g., a lockout state, a first damping rate and a second travel-stroke length) of therear suspension 18 and a second switch 32 (R-SW2) for setting a second electrically adjustable suspension parameter (e.g., a non-lockout state) of therear suspension 18. These first andsecond switches controller 14. Preferably, the first andsecond switches line communication section 33 to execute two-way communications through the electric power lines with the electric powerline communication section 14a of thecontroller 14. In this way, data can be transmitted from the first andsecond switches controller 14 by anelectric power line 34. Theelectric power line 34 includes at least a ground wire and a voltage line. Optionally, separate signal wires can be provided for transmitting data as needed and/or desired as seen inFigure 4 . - While each of the
switches bicycle 10 and/or the desired control of the adjustable suspension parameters, a single switch can be used to control both the front andrear suspensions rear suspensions - In the illustrated embodiment, as seen in
Figure 2 , thecontroller 14 is mounted on thehandlebar 15 of thebicycle 10 at locations near the gripping portion of thebicycle 10. However, thecontroller 14 can be mounted in other locations as needed and/or desired. Moreover, inFigure 2 , theswitches controller 14. However, it may be desirable to have theswitches controller 14. Also preferably, data is transmitted from the first andsecond switches controller 14 by anelectric power line 34. Theelectric power line 34 includes at least a ground wire and a voltage line. Optionally, separate signal wires can be provided for transmitting data as needed and/or desired. Alternatively, data can be transmitted from the first andsecond switches second switches controller 14 by wireless communication devices. Thus, the term "signal" as used herein is not limited to an electrical signal, but includes other types of signals such as a command. - In the illustrated embodiment, three
mode switches controller 14 for controlling operation modes ofcontroller 14 and operation modes of theswitches switches controller 14, one or more of the mode switches 41, 42 and 43 can be remotely located from thecontroller 14. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
controller 14 further includes amain microcomputer 60 and apower supply sensor 62. Optionally, the bicyclesuspension control apparatus 12 is also provided with adisplay unit 64 that can be part of thecontroller 14, as shown, or a separate member that is electrically or wirelessly connected to thecontroller 14. Preferably, thedisplay unit 64 indicates the current voltage or power level to the rider. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, thepower supply sensor 62 includes a voltage sensor for determining the power level of thepower supply 20. Preferably, thefront suspension 16 includes aFS microcomputer 70, anactuator 72, anactuator driver 74 and aposition sensor 76, while therear suspension 18 includes aRS microcomputer 80, anactuator 82, anactuator driver 84 and aposition sensor 86. - The
microcomputer 60 of thecontroller 14 and themicrocomputers rear suspensions main microcomputer 60 of thecontroller 14 cooperates with themicrocomputers rear suspensions rear suspensions microcomputers power supply sensor 62 to receive a power level signal from thepower supply sensor 62, in which the power level signal is indicative of a current power (voltage) level of thepower supply 20. The detection results of thepower supply sensor 62 can be sent to each of themicrocomputer 60 of thecontroller 14 and themicrocomputers rear suspensions microcomputers separate microcomputers microcomputers rear suspensions controller 14 as needed and/or desired. Thus, the bicycle suspension control apparatus can be configured such that themain microcomputer 60 and thefront suspension microcomputer 70 and therear suspension microcomputer 80 are combined together as a single microcomputer. - Basically, the
controller 14 receives the suspension adjustment signals from theswitches microcomputers rear suspensions main microcomputer 60 receives the input signals from both theswitches rear suspensions - The
power supply sensor 62 detects a power level of thepower supply 20. Thecontroller 14 receives a power level signal from thepower supply sensor 62 for determining the power level of thepower supply 20. Thedisplay unit 64 displays various data regarding the front andrear suspensions power supply 20 and other components of thebicycle 10. - As explained below, the bicycle adjusting controller (e.g., the
microcomputers rear suspension 18 upon thepower supply sensor 62 detecting the power level of thepower supply 20 being below a first prescribed power level P1. On the other hand, the bicycle adjusting controller (e.g., themicrocomputers front suspension 16 upon thepower supply sensor 62 detecting the power level of thepower supply 20 being below the first prescribed power level P1. However, the bicycle adjusting controller (e.g., themicrocomputers front suspension 16 upon thepower supply sensor 62 detecting the power level of thepower supply 20 being below a second prescribed power level P2 that is lower than the first prescribed power level P1. However, preferably, the bicycle adjusting controller (e.g., themicrocomputers power supply 20 is below the second prescribed power level P2. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the bicycle adjusting controller (e.g., themicrocomputers rear suspensions power supply 20 while the power level of the power supply is below the third prescribed power level P3. Thus, the third prescribed power level P3 is set to a value that stops operation of both of the rear andfront suspensions power supply 20. - In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the front and
rear suspensions microcomputers rear suspensions rear suspensions rear suspensions rear suspensions rear suspensions controller 14 is preferably further configured to a default mode that prohibits electrical energy from being supplied to change any of these electrically adjustable suspension parameters of therear suspension 18 while the power level of thepower supply 20 is below the first prescribed power level P1. - Moreover, the
controller 14 is preferably further configured to a default mode that prohibits electrical energy from being supplied to change any of these electrically adjustable suspension parameters of thefront suspension 16 while the power level of thepower supply 20 is below the second prescribed power level P2. Thecontroller 14 is preferably further configured so that the rider can manually set an override mode in which only selected ones of the electrically adjustable suspension parameters of the front andrear suspensions controller 14 can be configured such that the prescribed power levels P1 and/or P2 are adjustably by either the user and/or based on environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, season, etc.). - Of course, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the front and
rear suspensions microcomputers rear suspension 18 as the electrically adjustable suspension parameter that is prohibited from being subsequently changed either manually or automatically, or both, while the power level of thepower supply 20 is below the first prescribed power level P1. Then when the power level of thepower supply 20 is below the second prescribed power level P2, the bicycle adjusting controller (e.g., themicrocomputers front suspension 16 from being subsequently changed either manually or automatically. - In the
controller 14, themicrocomputer 60 includes other a central processing unit (CPU) and other conventional components such as an input interface circuit, an output interface circuit, and storage devices such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) device and a RAM (Random Access Memory) device. Themicrocomputer 60 can be provided with various control programs that control the front andrear suspensions bicycle 10. For example, themicrocomputer 60 includes manual control programs for manually controlling the front andrear suspensions rear suspensions rear suspensions switches rear suspensions power supply 20 is detected as falling below the first and second prescribed power levels P1 and P2. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that the precise structure and algorithms for thecontroller 14 can be any combination of hardware and software that will carry out the functions of the present invention. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
power supply sensor 62 is disposed in the housing of thecontroller 14. However, thepower supply sensor 62 is not limited to being disposed in the housing of thecontroller 14. For example, thepower supply sensor 62 can be disposed on anyone of the front andrear suspensions power supply 20 as needed and/or desired. Moreover, thepower supply sensor 62 includes at least one sensor element, but can be made of several sensor elements as needed and/or desired. Also thepower supply sensor 62 can be formed as a part of themicrocomputers - In this embodiment, the
front suspension 16 includes a pair of combination air-oil operated shock absorbers with various adjustment elements. Preferably, thefront suspension 16 includes an adjustment element for low speed and high speed compression damping, an adjustment element for stroke (piston travel or compression chamber volume), an adjustment element for air chamber pressure, for rebound damping, an adjustment element for lockout actuation, and an adjustment element for lockout force adjustment. Examples of such parameter adjustments may be found in current shock absorbers sold by suspension manufacturers. Since numerous types of conventional front suspensions can be utilized for thefront suspension 16, the structure of thefront suspension 16 will not be discussed and/or illustrated in detail. - In the
front suspension 16 of the illustrated embodiments, theactuator 72 includes a reversible motor that is configured and arranged to drive a valve or the like of thefront suspension 16. While theactuator 72 is illustrated as a motor in the illustrated embodiments, theactuator 72 can be other types of devices such as a solenoid. Theposition sensor 76 detects the position of theactuator 72 or other part of thefront suspension 16 that is indicative its setting position. For example, it is also possible that theposition sensor 76 detects a valve position for determining the setting position of thefront suspension 16. Theactuator 72 adjusts the position of the valve to set a state of thefront suspension 16, e.g., a lockout state, a damping rate, a travel-stroke length, etc. Theactuator driver 74 drives theactuator 72 in response to control signals from theFS microcomputer 70. Theactuator driver 74 includes motor drivers and deceleration units for driving and decelerating the rotation of theactuator 72. TheFS microcomputer 70 is configured and arranged to control theactuator driver 74 in response to an adjustment signal from theswitches controller 14. TheFS microcomputer 70 includes control circuits with CPUs, storage units, computation units, and the like. TheFS microcomputer 70 also includes software that controls theactuator 72 in accordance with adjustment signals outputted from theswitches - In this embodiment, the
rear suspension 18 includes a combination air-oil operated shock absorber with a typical external spring (not shown in the drawings). Therear suspension 18 includes various adjustment elements. Preferably, therear suspension 18 includes an adjustment element for spring preload, an adjustment element for low speed and high speed compression damping, an adjustment element for air chamber pressure adjustment, an adjustment element for air chamber volume adjustment, an adjustment element for rebound damping, an adjustment element for lockout actuation and an adjustment element for lockout force adjustment. Examples of such parameter adjustments may be found in current shock absorbers sold by suspension manufacturers. Since numerous types of conventional rear suspensions can be utilized for therear suspension 18, the structure of therear suspension 18 will not be discussed and/or illustrated in detail. - In the
rear suspension 18, theactuator 82 is a reversible motor that is configured and arranged to drive a valve or the like of therear suspension 18. While theactuator 82 is illustrated as a motor in the illustrated embodiments, theactuator 82 can be other types of devices such as a solenoid. Theposition sensor 86 detects the position of theactuator 82 or other part of therear suspension 18 that is indicative its setting position. Theactuator 82 adjusts the position of the valve to set a state of therear suspension 18, e.g., a lockout state, a damping rate, a travel-stroke length, etc. Theactuator driver 84 is configured and arranged to drive theactuator 82 in response to control signals from theRS microcomputer 80. Theactuator driver 84 includes motor drivers and deceleration units for driving and decelerating the rotation of theactuator 82. TheRS microcomputer 80 is configured and arranged to control theactuator driver 84 in response to an adjustment signal from theswitches controller 14. TheRS microcomputer 80 includes control circuits with CPUs, storage units, computation units, and the like. TheRS microcomputer 80 also includes software that controls theactuator 82 in accordance with adjustment signals outputted from theswitches - Furthermore, the position signals of the front and
rear position sensors controller 14 via thepower line 19. In thecontroller 14, the position signals are converted into display signals, and the positions of the front andrear suspensions display unit 64. Voltage data (VD e.g., three stages of voltage data) is also output to thecontroller 14 via thepower line 19. Furthermore, the adjustment signals are output from thecontroller 14 in accordance with the operation of theswitches switches rear suspensions respective power lines - In the control processes of
Figures 5 and6 , the bicycle adjusting controller is programmed to control the supply of power to the front andrear suspensions rear suspension 18 is stopped, except for switching therear suspension 18 from its lockout state to its non-lockout state, and so that thefront suspension 16 is maintained adjustable upon detecting the power level of the power supply 20 (i.e., the storage element) has dropped to an undesirable level (i.e., below the first prescribed power level P1). Furthermore, in the control process ofFigure 6 , adjustments of both of the front andrear suspensions rear suspensions power supply 20 has dropped to below the second prescribed power level P2. - As mentioned above, if the power level of the
power supply 20 drops further below the third prescribed power level threshold P3, then any adjustments of both of the front andrear suspensions rear suspensions power supply 20 being below the third prescribed power level P3 that is lower than the first and second prescribed power levels P1 and P2. Thus, the bicycle adjusting controller sets the third prescribed power level P3 to a value that stops adjustments of both of the front andrear suspensions power supply 20 is below the third prescribed power level P3. In this way, over discharge of thepower supply 20 is restrained. - Turning now to the flow chart of
Figure 5 , the bicycle adjusting controller (i.e., thecontroller 14, theFS microcomputer 70 and the RS microcomputer 80) conducts the process on a continuous basis every at prescribed time intervals once thecontroller 14 is turned "on" which results in power being supplied to theswitches switches rear suspensions - In step S1, the all of the previous detected values and/or flags are cleared from memory. Then the process proceeds to step S2.
- In step S2, the power (voltage) level of the
power supply 20 is read from thepower supply sensor 62. In other words, thepower supply sensor 62 detects a power level of thepower supply 20 being supplied from thepower supply 20 to the electricallyadjustable suspensions microcomputers - In step S3, the bicycle adjusting controller then determines if the power (voltage) level of the
power supply 20 is below the first prescribed power level P1. If the power (voltage) level is below the first prescribed power level P1, then the process proceeds to step S4. - In step S4, the bicycle adjusting controller prohibits changing the rear suspension state of the
rear suspension 18 upon thepower supply sensor 62 detecting the power level of thepower supply 20 being below a first prescribed power level P2. However, preferably, the bicycle adjusting controller only permits changing of the setting state of therear suspension 18 from the lockout state to the non-lockout suspension state while the power level of thepower supply 20 is below the first prescribed power level P1. - However, in step S3, if the bicycle adjusting controller determines the power (voltage) level of the
power supply 20 is not below the first prescribed power level P2, then the process returns to the beginning to start again at the next prescribed time interval. - As mentioned above, there are at several ways for prohibiting the rear suspension state of the
rear suspension 18 from being changed in step S4. For example, when the power level of thepower supply 20 is below the first prescribed power level P1 (i.e., YES in step S3), thecontroller 14 can stop supplying power to the adjusting switches 31 and 32. Alternatively, for example, either thecontroller 14 or theRS microcomputer 80, or both ignores any adjustment signals from the adjusting switches 31 and 32 when the power level of thepower supply 20 is below the first prescribed power level P1 (i.e., YES in step S3). Yet another alternative way of prohibiting the rear suspension state of therear suspension 18 from being changed in step S4, for example, is to stop supplying power to therear suspension 18 and/or selected components of therear suspension 18. - Turning now to the flow chart of
Figure 6 , an alternative control process will now be discussed. In the alternative control process, when voltage falls below the second prescribed power level P2, the bicycle adjusting controller (i.e., thecontroller 14, theFS microcomputer 70 and the RS microcomputer 80) stops adjustment of thefront suspension 16. The second prescribed power level P2 is lower than the first prescribed power level P2. However, for example, it is possible to permit the rider to only change the setting of thefront suspension 16 to from a lockout state to an non-lockout (unlocked) state before the bicycle adjusting controller (i.e., thecontroller 14, theFS microcomputer 70 and the RS microcomputer 80) stops adjustment the operation of the each suspension. - In this alternative process, steps S 11 to S13 are identical to the control process of steps S 1 to S3 of
Figure 5 , and thus the descriptions of these steps will not be repeated with respect to the alternative control process ofFigure 6 . In this alternative control process ofFigure 6 , the bicycle adjusting controller (i.e., thecontroller 14, theFS microcomputer 70 and the RS microcomputer 80) conducts the process on a continuous basis every at prescribed time intervals once thecontroller 14 is turned "on" which results in power being supplied to theswitches switches rear suspensions - In
step S 14, the bicycle adjusting controller determines if the power (voltage) level of thepower supply 20 is below the second prescribed power level P2. If the power (voltage) level is not below the second prescribed power level P2, then the process proceeds to stepS 15. However, instep S 14, if the bicycle adjusting controller determines the power (voltage) level of thepower supply 20 is below the second prescribed power level P2, then process proceeds to step S16. - In
step S 15, the bicycle adjusting controller prohibits changing the rear suspension state of therear suspension 18. Then the process returns to the beginning to start again at the next prescribed time interval. Instep S 15, prohibiting the suspension state of therear suspension 18 from being changed is the same as in step S4 ofFigure 5 , discussed above. - In step S16, the bicycle adjusting controller prohibits changing the front and rear suspension states of the
front suspension 16 and therear suspension 18, respectively. Then the process returns to the beginning to start again at the next prescribed time interval. In step S16, prohibiting the suspension state ofrear suspension 18 from being changed is the same as in step S4 ofFigure 5 , discussed above. In step S16, prohibiting, the prohibiting the front suspension state of thefront suspension 16 from being changed can be accomplished similar to step S4 ofFigure 5 by: (1) themicrocomputer 60 in thecontroller 14 stopping the supply of power to theswitches microcomputer 60 in thecontroller 14 not outputting and/or stopping the front adjusting signal to theFS microcomputer 70 of therear suspension 18, even though a front adjusting signal has been received by themicrocomputer 60 in thecontroller 14; (3) theFS microcomputer 70 not operating theactuator driver 84 and theactuator 72 even though a front adjusting signal has been received by theFS microcomputer 70 from themicrocomputer 60; or (4) themicrocomputer 60 in thecontroller 14 stopping the supply of power to thefront suspension 16 and/or selected components of thefront suspension 16. - While the
bicycle 10 is equipped with both the front andrear suspensions Figure 5 would "prohibit change of front suspension states, except for switching from lockout state to non-lockout state". Also in step S 15 ofFigure 6 , the bicycle suspension control apparatus can be configured to prohibit changing any of the states of the rear suspension completely. - Moreover, the bicycle suspension control apparatus is not limited to illustrated configurations. For example, the bicycle suspension control apparatus can be configured such that the
power sensor 62 is disposed on thepower supply 20. Also the bicycle suspension control apparatus can be configured such that a microcomputer (not shown) is provided in thepower supply 20 with the microcomputer (not shown) of thepower supply 20 forming a part of the bicycle adjusting controller. In such a case, the bicycle suspension control apparatus can be further configured such that themain microcomputer 60, thefront suspension microcomputer 70, therear suspension microcomputer 80 and/or the microcomputer (not shown) of thepower supply 20 can be combined together. - While only selected embodiments have been chosen to illustrate the present invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that various changes and modifications can be made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the size, shape, location or orientation of the various components can be changed as needed and/or desired. Components that are shown directly connected or contacting each other can have intermediate structures disposed between them. The functions of one element can be performed by two, and vice versa. The structures and functions of one embodiment can be adopted in another embodiment. It is not necessary for all advantages to be present in a particular embodiment at the same time. Every feature which is unique from the prior art, alone or in combination with other features, also should be considered a separate description of further inventions by the applicant, including the structural and/or functional concepts embodied by such feature(s). Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the embodiments according to the present invention are provided for illustration only, and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims (10)
- A bicycle suspension control apparatus comprising:a power supply sensor that detects a power level of a power supply being supplied from the power supply to an electrically adjustable suspension; anda controller configured to selectively change a setting state of the suspension between at least a lockout state and a non-lockout state, the controller being operatively coupled to the power supply sensor to receive a power level signal from the power supply sensor,the controller prohibiting changing of the setting state of the suspension from the non-lockout state to the lockout state upon the power supply sensor detecting the power level of the power supply being below a first prescribed power level, andthe controller permitting changing of the setting state of the suspension from the lockout state to the non-lockout suspension state while the power level of the power supply is below the first prescribed power level.
- The bicycle suspension control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
the electrically adjustable suspension includes an electrically adjustable rear suspension. - The bicycle suspension control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
the electrically adjustable suspension includes an electrically adjustable front suspension. - The bicycle suspension control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
the electrically adjustable suspension includes an electrically adjustable rear suspension and an electrically adjustable front suspension. - The bicycle suspension control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
the controller permitting changing an electrically adjustable suspension parameter of a front suspension while the power supply sensor detecting the power level of the power supply is below the first prescribed power level. - The bicycle suspension control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
the controller permitting changing of the setting state of the front suspension from the non-lockout state to the lockout state upon the power supply sensor detecting the power level of the power supply being below a first prescribed power level. - The bicycle suspension control apparatus according to claim 6, wherein
the controller prohibiting changing of the setting state of the front suspension from the non-lockout state to the lockout state upon the power supply sensor detecting the power level of the power supply being below a second prescribed power level that is lower than the first level,
the controller permitting changing of the setting state of the front suspension from the lockout state to the non-lockout state upon the power supply sensor detecting the power level of the power supply being below the second prescribed power level. - The bicycle suspension control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the controller sets a third prescribed power level such that the controller stops operation of the suspension prior to complete discharge of the power supply while the power level of the power supply is below the third prescribed power level. - The bicycle suspension control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein
the power supply sensor includes a voltage sensor. - A bicycle suspension control method comprising:detecting a power level of a power supply that supplies power to change a setting state of an electrically adjustable suspension; andprohibiting changing of the setting state of the suspension from the non-lockout state to the lockout state upon the power supply sensor detecting the power level of the power supply being below a first prescribed power level; andpermitting changing of the setting state of the suspension from the lockout state to the non-lockout suspension state while the power level of the power supply is below the first prescribed power level.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US13/075,577 US8429061B2 (en) | 2011-03-30 | 2011-03-30 | Bicycle suspension control apparatus |
Publications (2)
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EP2505474A1 true EP2505474A1 (en) | 2012-10-03 |
EP2505474B1 EP2505474B1 (en) | 2015-06-03 |
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EP11176185.4A Active EP2505474B1 (en) | 2011-03-30 | 2011-08-01 | Bicycle suspension control apparatus |
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US (1) | US8429061B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2505474B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN102729758B (en) |
TW (1) | TWI440575B (en) |
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JP2012179976A (en) * | 2011-02-28 | 2012-09-20 | Shimano Inc | Bicycle suspension control apparatus |
US9284016B2 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2016-03-15 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle component control apparatus |
US8655548B2 (en) * | 2011-03-31 | 2014-02-18 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle component control apparatus |
US8843273B2 (en) * | 2012-09-24 | 2014-09-23 | Sram, Llc | Bicycle suspension |
DE102013014091B4 (en) * | 2013-08-27 | 2023-05-11 | Dt Swiss Ag | Suspension control for a two-wheeler and method |
TWI564204B (en) * | 2014-08-13 | 2017-01-01 | 巨大機械工業股份有限公司 | Device for detecting a riding posture |
US9428242B2 (en) * | 2014-02-24 | 2016-08-30 | Harley-Davidson Motor Company Group, LLC | Variable ride height systems and methods |
DE102015107707A1 (en) * | 2015-05-18 | 2016-11-24 | Dt Swiss Ag | Suspension control for a muscle-operated two-wheeler |
JP6609498B2 (en) * | 2016-03-28 | 2019-11-20 | 株式会社ショーワ | Vehicle height adjustment device |
US10556634B2 (en) | 2017-07-05 | 2020-02-11 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle control system |
US10392020B2 (en) | 2017-07-07 | 2019-08-27 | Shimano Inc. | Bicycle component control system |
JP6929721B2 (en) * | 2017-07-10 | 2021-09-01 | 株式会社シマノ | Bicycle control device, electric auxiliary unit including bicycle control device, suspension including bicycle control device, and adjustable seat post including bicycle control device |
US10889346B2 (en) | 2017-08-18 | 2021-01-12 | Shimano Inc. | Electric twist-grip operating device |
US10322762B2 (en) | 2017-08-31 | 2019-06-18 | Shimano Inc. | Height adjustable seatpost assembly |
JP6964013B2 (en) * | 2018-02-20 | 2021-11-10 | 株式会社シマノ | Human-powered vehicle controls, shock absorbers, and human-powered vehicles |
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2011
- 2011-03-30 US US13/075,577 patent/US8429061B2/en active Active
- 2011-08-01 EP EP11176185.4A patent/EP2505474B1/en active Active
- 2011-08-08 TW TW100128233A patent/TWI440575B/en active
- 2011-12-12 CN CN201110412464.XA patent/CN102729758B/en active Active
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EP2269903A1 (en) * | 2009-06-29 | 2011-01-05 | Shimano, Inc. | Apparatus for controlling a bicycle front or rear suspension element |
EP2309352A1 (en) * | 2009-09-23 | 2011-04-13 | Cannondale Bicycle Corporation | Bicycle distributed computing arrangement and method of operation |
Also Published As
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US20120253598A1 (en) | 2012-10-04 |
TW201238824A (en) | 2012-10-01 |
TWI440575B (en) | 2014-06-11 |
EP2505474B1 (en) | 2015-06-03 |
US8429061B2 (en) | 2013-04-23 |
CN102729758A (en) | 2012-10-17 |
CN102729758B (en) | 2014-12-24 |
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